I am doing a training session with some entry level project coordinators. One of the exercises I would like to do is give them a list of tasks and have them create a project plan with milestones, tasks, subtasks and dependencies. Has anyone done a similar training that would be willing to share content? Thank you in advance!Saving Changes...

Rather than give them a predefined set of tasks, why not give them a personal project such as planning Thanksgiving dinner, a set of key milestones, and then let them develop the WBS and translate the work packages into activities and a network diagram?

Hi Tonya,
While training the project coordinators I usually give them tasks that are from a live / in-progress or a completed project of that organization. It helps them to understand the domain, type of work they are going to do, and a focused approach. In-case they are completely new to project management, then a generic scenario would work as Kiron suggested.Saving Changes...

Tonya:
Good responses, I would think about the outcomes and terminology.

Normally a project plan is the overarching master plan for the project - Project Management Plan.

It sounds like you want to train them on how to build a project schedule so think about the learning outcomes and competency required. Some the these competencies may range from beginner to intermediate/advanced.

Outcomes would be:
Can use a WBS to build a project schedule in MS Project (for example)
Can build a simple project schedule
Can add high level tasks
Can create a baseline with milestones and dependenciesSaving Changes...

It might help to allow them the option of a personally selected project, but to also have a standby project as a backup plan.

I had a Six Sigma class where this worked out well. With personally chosen projects, the professor would review them before we got too far to make sure we had picked something suitable for the scope and learning objectives of the class. Many of us were professionals who did not have projects we could either share publicly or fit within the project timeframe, so there was an option for an off-the-shelf project we could use instead.

Interestingly, although most of us did the same off-the-shelf project, there was a great deal of variety in our final project outcomes when we presented our reports to the rest of the class.Saving Changes...